Joel Daniel
Smyrna High School
AP Physics-C Mechanics, Honors Physics, Physical Science 

Eric J. Barth, Ph.D., Mechanical Engineering, Center for Compact and Efficient Fluid Power 

This project studied feasibility of various methods for storing energy within a hydraulic energy system for use in regenerative braking.  In a regenerative braking application, this absorbed energy must be stored in what is conveniently named an accumulator so that it can later be utilized to re-accelerate the vehicle. This system requires an accumulator capable of storing the kinetic energy of a standard size car moving at 40 mph. Materials studied include a mechanical spring, a compressing a gas bladder, and elastomers to store the required energy.  This feasibility study examined the energy storing capabilities of materials with respect to 1) mass specific energy density, 2) volumetric energy density, 3) issues of fatigue, 4) issues of cost, 5) appropriateness for a compact and simple design. 

The curriculum that I have written focuses on the transition between many different potential energy storage systems and kinetic energy.  Students will focus primarily on the use of various types of springs (metal, gas, elastomeric, etc.) as well as attempt to run a few simple tests for Dr. Barth’s aspect of the project.